Exploring the Afterlife: A Journey of the Soul With Rabbi Chaim Loschak

This summer, Chabad of Montecito will offer a course designed to demystify the concept of life after death. The course, titled “Journey of the Soul,” was developed by Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) and will be taught by Rabbi Chaim Loschak. The six-session series began on Tuesday, August 15, at 7 pm, inviting attendees to embark on a spiritual expedition, one that explores life before birth, after death, and everything in between.

“Death is both mysterious and inevitable,” Rabbi Loschak told the Montecito Journal. “Understanding death as a continuation of life reveals the holiness of life while putting everything – especially while living – in a dramatically new context. The soul is on one long journey that is greater than each particular chapter.”

JLI’s programs are designed for people of all knowledge levels, making them accessible to everyone, regardless of their background in Jewish learning. The courses are open to the public, and attendees need not be affiliated with any specific synagogue, temple, or other house of worship.

Each session lasts about an hour and a half, and the format includes interactive lectures, videos, discussions, personal reflections, and a comprehensive student book. Attendees can look forward to an engaging learning environment, enriched by thoughtful conversations and insightful material.

While priced at $115, Chabad of Montecito is committed to accessibility and does not turn away anyone due to financial constraints. Those who are unsure can attend a standalone trial class to get a taste of the course’s content and style.

Rabbi Loschak, who was born in Goleta and spent eight years in New York, recently returned to the area with his family. He is hopeful about the opportunities that Montecito offers for Jewish culture, learning, and community building.

“I’m excited by the potential of this course and the opportunity to learn more about the interests of the community. This can be a springboard to many more courses on a variety of diverse topics,” Rabbi Loschak said.

Classes will be held outdoors (weather permitting) at 450 Toro Canyon Road. This is not just a course but an invitation to explore and understand the soul’s spiritual odyssey — a journey that transcends life and death.  

To learn more or to register for the course, visit jewishmontecito.org/JLI or contact Rabbi Chaim Loschak at (805) 613-7199 and rabbi@jewishmontecito.org.